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End of special speed limit
The sign indicates that the special speed limit of 40 km/h ends. The general speed limit then applies again: 50 km/h in built-up areas and 80 km/h outside built-up areas, unless otherwise indicated by signs.
When you see the sign
Once you have passed the sign, the special speed limit of 40 km/t no longer applies. The general speed limit is then normally 50 km/t in built-up areas and 80 km/t outside built-up areas, unless another speed limit is signposted.
Rules
- The speed limit of 40 km/t applies until you have passed the sign.
- After the sign, the general speed limit applies: 50 km/t in built-up areas and 80 km/t outside built-up areas.
- If a new speed limit is signposted, the new signposted speed limit applies instead of the general limit.
- The sign does not require you to increase your speed; your speed must still be adjusted to the visibility, road and traffic conditions, and other circumstances.
Tips
- Determine whether you are in or outside a built-up area before deciding which speed limit applies next.
- Wait until the entire vehicle has passed the sign before increasing your speed.
- Look for a new speed-limit sign shortly afterwards, especially when entering a new section of road.
- Increase your speed gradually, and only if the road, visibility and traffic conditions make it safe to do so.
Common misconceptions
- Some people think the sign means that there is no speed limit further on. The correct interpretation is that the general speed limit or a new signposted limit applies.
- Some assume that the speed limit will always be 80 km/t after the sign. In built-up areas, the general speed limit is 50 km/t.
- Some confuse the sign with a prohibition on access or entry. The diagonal lines here indicate that the special speed limit of 40 km/t comes to an end.
Test yourself
Easy
What does this sign mean?
- AAll vehicles are prohibited from driving further.
- BThe special speed limit of 40 km/t ends.
- CIt is prohibited to enter from this direction.
- DThe special speed limit of 40 km/t begins.
Medium
You are driving in a built-up area on a slippery road and are approaching this sign. No new speed limit is posted. How should you drive?
- AI drive at no more than 40 km/t until I have passed the sign and then adjust my speed within 50 km/t.
- BI increase my speed to 80 km/t after passing the sign and then adjust my speed to the traffic.
- CI drive at no more than 40 km/t after passing the sign and continue this way until the next intersection.
- DI increase my speed to 50 km/t before passing the sign and then maintain this speed regardless of the road conditions.
Hard
You are driving outside a built-up area and pass this sign. Shortly afterward, you pass a new sign indicating 60 km/t. Which speed limit applies then?
- AThe speed limit is 60 km/t because the newly posted limit applies.
- BThe speed limit is 40 km/t because the previous limit applies until the next intersection.
- CThere is no speed limit because the previously posted limit has ended.
- DThe speed limit is 80 km/t because the general limit applies outside a built-up area.
Theory test tip
A common trap is a question in which the sign is outside a built-up area. In that case, the answer is normally 80 km/t after the sign, not 50 km/t and not unlimited speed, as long as no other speed limit is signposted.
Did you know
Sign 364.4 combines the number 40 with diagonal dark lines to show that this particular special speed limit is ending. It is typically used where a local 40 zone or 40-km/t section changes to the road's general speed limit or to another signposted speed limit.
Frequently asked questions
Can I increase my speed before passing the sign?
No. The speed limit of 40 km/t applies until you have passed the sign. Any increase in speed must take place after passing it, and only when conditions allow.
Which speed limit applies after the sign in a built-up area?
The general speed limit in a built-up area is 50 km/t. However, a different limit may apply if it is specifically signposted.
Which speed limit applies after the sign outside a built-up area?
The general speed limit outside a built-up area is normally 80 km/t. You must follow a different limit if one is signposted, and your speed must always be appropriate for the conditions.
Does the sign mean that I must drive at 50 or 80 km/t?
No. The sign indicates the maximum permitted speed after the 40-km/t limit has been lifted, but it does not require you to drive at that speed. You must choose a lower speed if the conditions require it.
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